Occupational medicine is a rapidly expanding and professionals in this field will continue to increase in demand in the coming years, as more and more individuals become employed. Individuals wishing to work in this field can get the knowledge needed through training and gaining experience in the workplace, but not having formal education could violate the requirements of competence that are essential in most aspects of health and safety legislation. Local occupational medicine physicians deal with managing the health of workers and their are several programs within this field that deal with health laws and policy. General requirements for a career in this field consists of having a diploma in occupational medicine, Associateship of the Faculty Occupational Medicine (AFOM), Members of the Faculty (MFOM), and Fellowship of the Faculty (FFOM). Someone only wishing to practice in their careers part time may only be required to have a diploma in occupational medicine, which only provides a basic level of information in the field. Part time practitioners are able to display a core knowledge of practices and theories. Students wishing to obtain certification needed in this field can usually do so at local universities through residency programs. These students are given hands on training where they learn how to lead in their field, and focus on keeping workers healthy. This is done by making sure the environment in which workers work are safe for the health of the workers. This includes evaluating the chemical, social, and physical environment of workers.
